Very Positive(91%)
modding community
strategic depth
replayability
alternate history
rich strategy
DLC pricing
AI behavior
realism complexity
steep learning curve
expensive DLCs
naval mechanics
lack of tutorial
game stability
The reviews of Hearts of Iron IV reflect a passionate mixed sentiment. While players praise the game's depth and modding community, they often express frustration at its steep learning curve and expensive DLC content. The game's strategic complexity is both celebrated for offering endless replayability and criticized when it poses too many barriers to new players. Mixed reactions to the recent updates and feature changes are common, with some appreciating the continuous development while others feel changes disrupt gameplay. Overall, the game seems to captivate its dedicated audience despite its perceived flaws.
Positive Points
The game's modding community is widely praised, with many players referencing specific mods like 'The Fire Rises,' 'Old World Blues,' 'Kaiserreich,' and 'Millennium Dawn,' which significantly enhance the gameplay experience.Many players appreciate the game's depth and complexity, noting that it offers a highly engaging and addictive strategy experience once you learn how to play.The historical and alternate history scenarios are seen as a major positive, allowing players to explore different outcomes of World War II and rewrite history.Some players highlight the game's replayability, with references to spending thousands of hours exploring various scenarios and nations.There is commendation for the detail in managing aspects like diplomacy, industry, and military production, offering a rich grand strategy experience.Negative Points
The game is often criticized for its steep learning curve and lack of an effective tutorial, making it difficult for new players to pick up and play efficiently.Many reviewers are very critical of the game's reliance on expensive DLCs, which are seen as necessary to fully experience and enjoy the game.Numerous players express dissatisfaction with the game's naval mechanics, which are described as confusing and frustrating to master.There are complaints about the game's stability and bugs, with some players experiencing crashes and performance issues.The community's culture and the game’s tendency to encourage extensive devotion from its players sometimes are seen as detrimental to personal well-being.Mixed Points
While some players commend the game for its realism and complexity, others find these same qualities overwhelming and a barrier to enjoyment.The AI behavior is perceived as both a challenge and a frustration, with some players appreciating the difficulty level while others find it erratic.The introduction and frequent addition of DLCs create mixed feelings; while some enjoy the new content, others are unhappy with the pricing and the need to buy so many expansions.Common Themes
Many players find the game addictive, with numerous reviews mentioning hundreds to thousands of hours spent learning and playing.The DLC pricing and policies are a dominant theme, with frequent mentions of the financial barrier they create.There is a shared experience of ongoing learning, with many players noting how they continue to discover new things about the game despite extensive playtime.Updated 12/31/2025, 12:01:12 AM UTC